Taufete'e makes Warriors move permanent

NEWS: United States international hooker Joe Taufete'e signed for English Premiership strugglers Worcester Warriors on a permanent basis on Tuesday after impressing during his three months there.

The 24-year-old former American footballer, capped nine times since making his debut for the USA at the 2015 World Cup, has played five times for the Warriors, scoring one try, since joining them on a short-term deal last December.

Taufete'e, who switched to Rugby Union in 2011 and has played in both the USA and New Zealand prior to obtaining a professional contract back home with the San Diego Breakers, said he had really enjoyed his time in Worcester.

"I've quickly warmed to life at Warriors where there are a great bunch of players," Taufete'e told the club website.

"It's been great to get on the field and I'm looking forward to showing more of what I can do in the near future.

"I feel blessed to get this opportunity and I'd like to thank my wife for allowing me to chase this dream."

Gary Gold, Warriors Director of Rugby, said Taufete'e deserved his chance after showing enough potential first in cup matches and then when given a spot in the Premiership side.

"Joe has grabbed his opportunity with both hands in the cup competitions and has been rewarded with a call-up to our Premiership squad," said Gold.

"His work rate has been tremendous and in his handful of appearances so far, he has looked a real threat with ball in hand while impressing at the set-piece.

"Hopefully he will continue to develop in the current environment and we look forward to seeing how far he can progress with his game."

Worcester are presently second from bottom of the table but should be safe from relegation as tailenders Bristol are seven points adrift of them with five matches remaining of the regular season.